Test of Loyalty
61
A tithe of all our increase is the Lord’s. He has reserved it to
Himself, to be employed for religious purposes. It is holy. Nothing
less than this has He accepted in any dispensation. A neglect or
postponement of this duty, will provoke the divine displeasure. If all
professed Christians would faithfully bring their tithes to God, His
treasury would be full.—
The Review and Herald, May 16, 1882
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Designed as a Great Blessing
The special system of tithing was founded upon a principle which
is as enduring as the law of God. This system of tithing was a blessing
to the Jews, else God would not have given it them. So also will it be
a blessing to those who carry it out to the end of time. Our heavenly
Father did not originate the plan of systematic benevolence to enrich
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Himself, but to be a great blessing to man. He saw that this system of
beneficence was just what man needed.—
Testimonies for the Church
3:404, 405
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Nine Tenths Worth More Than the Ten
Many have pitied the lot of the Israel of God in being compelled
to give systematically, besides making liberal offerings yearly. An
all-wise God knew best what system of benevolence would be in
accordance with His providence, and has given His people directions
in regard to it. It has ever proved that nine tenths are worth more to
them than ten tenths.—
Testimonies for the Church 3:546
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A Marked Change From Jewish Days
Of all our income we should make the first appropriation to God. In
the system of beneficence enjoined upon the Jews, they were required
either to bring to the Lord the first fruits of all His gifts, whether in
the increase of their flocks or herds, or in the produce of their fields,
orchards, or vineyards, or they were to redeem it by substituting an
equivalent. How changed the order of things in our day! The Lord’s
requirements and claims, if they receive any attention, are left till the
last. Yet our work needs tenfold more means now than was needed by
the Jews.